Check out these up-and-coming musicians

Tuesday

Check out three new albums from artists we predict are destined for big things: Gringo Star, Ariel Rubin and Dominant Legs.

Check out three new albums from artists we predict are destined for big things.

Gringo Star, ‘Count Yer Lucky Stars.’

If The Strokes always struck you as a little too slick and not nearly funny enough, you might want to try Gringo Star. There’s some of that same ’80s sheen, sure, but Gringo mixes in an edgy sense of humor, more raucous melodies, a touch of R&B and rockabilly and a lot more guitars and pianos. The result is a hand-clapping party album you won’t be deleting from your iPod anytime soon. (Gigantic Records)

Ariel Rubin, ‘Big Spoon.’

It’s hard to judge an artist by a three-track EP, but Rubin’s lilting vocals, backed by ukuleles on the luscious title track and plucky strings and electric guitar on ballsy “I Am a Sinner,” bode well for future success. By the time she’s rollicking through the percussion-driven “Mama I’m Leaving,” you’re hoping she’ll come back, soon, with a full album. (Tangled Mane)

Dominant Legs, ‘Invitation.’

Unabashedly retro, Dominant Legs sound like they stepped right out of Marty McFly’s time-traveling DeLorean. Feeling like the moment in the early 1980s when New Wave went dance hall, the group channels the likes of ABC, Human League and even a bit of Yaz. A little Scissors Sister-style modern sass would have been nice, but if you’re longing to go back to the ’80s, your ride’s here. (Lefse Records)

Contact Peter Chianca at pchianca@wickedlocal.com.

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